Brazil's Dynamic Duo Raphinha and Estevao Set to Dazzle Against Chile

Brazil faces the challenge of taking on Chile in their penultimate 2026 FIFA World Cup CONMEBOL Qualifying match without several key star players.

The June international window proved significant for the Seleção. Carlo Ancelotti stepped into his role as head coach, Brazil remained unbeaten throughout the period, and the squad successfully secured their place in next summer's World Cup tournament.

Having already clinched qualification, Ancelotti opted to keep Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo and Éder Militão with their Madrid club to provide opportunities for emerging talents in September. Neymar was also omitted from the coach's selection, while both Matheus Cunha and Alex Sandro had to pull out due to fitness concerns.

Here's how Brazil's starting eleven might appear when they face Chile.

Brazil Predicted Lineup vs. Chile (4-2-3-1)

GK: Alisson—The Liverpool shot-stopper aims to achieve three consecutive clean sheets since Ancelotti assumed control of the Seleção.

RB: Vanderson—Vanderson hasn't quite established himself at right-back yet, but given the limited options in that position, the 24-year-old represents the strongest choice.

CB: Marquinhos—The PSG skipper has established himself as Brazil's defensive leader following Militão's extended injury absence last campaign. Marquinhos will appreciate having Gabriel's experience beside him as he reaches his century of international caps.

CB: Gabriel—Following his absence from the June international window due to fitness issues, Gabriel returns to the Seleção's starting lineup and is set for his debut under Ancelotti's guidance.

LB: Douglas Santos—Since Marcelo's international retirement, the left-back position has remained problematic for Brazil. With Alex Sandro unavailable through injury, Santos gets his opportunity to make an impression in that role.

DM: Bruno Guimarães—Guimarães has displayed excellent form in his first three Newcastle United appearances, even scoring against Liverpool.

DM: Casemiro—Ancelotti orchestrated Casemiro's international comeback in June and will again depend on his former player to provide defensive stability.

RW: Estêvão—The 18-year-old earns his place on the right flank following his promising beginning at Chelsea. Estêvão represents one of the most promising young talents not only for Brazil, but globally.

AM: Raphinha—As the sole La Liga player in Brazil's September squad, Raphinha faces pressure to spearhead the attack without the support of Vinícius Júnior or Rodrygo.

LW: Gabriel Martinelli—Brazil's left wing position needs filling, and Martinelli can occupy that space as he works to demonstrate his worth to Ancelotti.

ST: João Pedro—Following Richarlison's disappointing June performances, Pedro might spearhead the Seleção's attack in what would mark just his fourth international outing.